U.S. Engagement in Libya: The Way Forward

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The Obama Administration has been reluctant to lead in the NATO operations in Libya since the beginning of the conflict. Unfortunately, attempting to “lead from behind” has limited strategic progress, and the President’s failure to involve Congress from the beginning has weakened any credible way forward.

In order for a viable roadmap for the Libyan operations to be achieved, Congress must be engaged. Last week, the U.S. House of Representatives put President Obama on notice, approving a resolution criticizing his failure to provide Congress with “a compelling rationale based upon United States national security interests” for U.S. military engagement in Libya. The President must now state his justification for committing U.S. forces as well as the political objectives he hopes to achieve. The Senate has contemplated making the same demand, but with less enthusiasm. In addition, questions remain about the President’s decisions related to, not only the War Powers Act and its constitutionality, but also agreeing to refer the Libyan leader’s actions to the International Criminal Court.

Join us as our panel assesses how the Administration should proceed in Libya and what the role of the U.S. Congress should be in developing a sensible strategy for peace and transition.

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